Lifelong learning and library programming for third agers

Robin M. Sabo

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Library Science and Administration Library Science and Information Literacy Aging, Elder Care, and Social Issues

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine library programming for active older (“third age”) adults and give suggestions for future improvements. In addition to covering research specific to library programming for these adults, which is limited, this review will also survey the literature on lifelong learning for this population. Design/methodology/approach This paper includes a literature review on library programming geared specifically to active, older adults and a survey of literature on lifelong learning for the “third agers”. Findings Demographics show that older adults are a growing population, not only in the USA, but worldwide. Many baby boomers have already entered or soon will be entering the “third age”. Most libraries are not providing specific programming to support these older lifelong learners. In the USA, baby boomers have the highest net worth of any generation, and as such, are an important fundraising source. Research indicates that older adults participate in lifelong learning activities and will attend library programs of interest. Topics of interest include hobbies/leisure pursuits, humanities, social/international issues, religion/philosophy, arts, technology and nutrition/health/stress management. Practical implications Libraries are missing a prime opportunity to expand services, develop library advocates and fundraise by ignoring the growing population of active older adults. Suggestions are given for how both public and academic libraries can take advantage of these opportunities. Social implications Older adults are a rapidly growing population. Providing library programming for this group benefits both older adults and libraries. Originality/value There are no known previous comprehensive literature reviews on library programming for older adults. Offering specific programming to this population has benefits for older adults, libraries and their communities.

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References

2006Learning and Active Aging 2011Participation in learning and wellbeing among older adults 2013Older Adults and the Public Library: The Impact of the Boomer Generation

Cited by

2019Library services to an aging population: A nation-wide study in the United States 2022Exercising at the Library: Small and Rural Public Libraries in the Lives of Older Adults 2018Senior Citizens in the Twenty-First-Century Public Library 2020Aging in a Digital Society: Exploring How Canadian and Australian Public Library Systems Program for Older Adults 2024Exploring the influential factors and improvement strategies for digital information literacy among the elderly: An analysis based on integrated learning algorithms 2017Yoga at the Public Library: An Exploratory Survey of Canadian and American Librarians 2021Diaries of lifelong learners: Information seeking behaviors of older adults in peer-learning study groups at an academic institution 2020Mitigating the Challenges and Capitalizing on Opportunities: A Qualitative Investigation of the Public Library’s Response to an Aging Population

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